In the morning, in the cold, as the sun rises and the first light streams across the frozen pasture, Maria and her pony, Chloe, learn “touch,” a daily ritual that helps the two communicate and brings them closer. Chloe touches things in exchange for a hug, kiss or a carrot. When I get to the pasture every morning now, I say “kiss,” and Chloe touches my nose with her soft nose. I never imagined starting my day that way, I am appreciating it. Touch. Something we need to do with one another.